Audi RS2 (1995)

The Audi RS2 was a limited run, high-performance estate car produced for just over a year between March ’94 and July ’95 at the tail end of the Audi 80 production run. Following on from the S2, the RS2 leaned heavily on Porsche’s knowledge and parts bin to create a very special car and the start point for what would become a core part of Audi’s business.

The lesser S2 had served well with the inline 5 cylinder providing a healthy 230bhp and 258lb ft of torque. The RS2 introduced a 30% larger KKK turbocharger, hotter camshafts, a revised inlet manifold and larger exhaust, bumping the power up quite considerably to 315bhp from just 2226cc. A 964 Turbo of the same time produced only 5bhp more from a 3.3 litre engine.

All over the car the Porsche influence is obvious, most noticeably the 17” Carrera Cup wheels, the Porsche-branded callipers behind them. The teardrop wingmirrors are lifted straight from the Porsche model range along with a wealth of other parts, sidelights straight from a 911 Carrera 4.

Supplied new to the Isle of Man, this example resided with a rally competitor, who spent much of his spare time competing in Escort Cosworths in various states of tune. Clearly a penchant for 4WD performance cars. He first learned of the RS2 on a flight back from Italy, and upon reading an article alongside his finance director, they promptly ordered one each as company cars.

Retiring from competitive rallying in 1995, the first owner noted that this example formed half of the perfect two car garage, and unless necessary, he wouldn’t be selling the car. The car followed his departure from the company and subsequent move to the UK and he purchased the car and transferred the V5 into his name. It even spent two years at his second home in Italy.

In 2015, this example was purchased by a notable collector in the UK who embarked on a comprehensive restoration of the car with marque specialists, QST Limited. The mileage at the time was just 44,250 miles, but as a fastidious owner ensured the car was treated to a full respray and comprehensive mechanical overhaul.

A stickler for detail and fastidious maintenance, he ensured the car was diligently serviced by the supplying dealer for the first four years and then Audi main dealerships and specialists. This RS2 is accompanied by a wealth of main dealer service records from the original owner during his ownership spanning 20 years, as well as restoration invoices to the tune of £40,000 and preventative maintenance.

In 2019, we were tasked by the current custodian to find the finest example of an RS2 to fulfil his poster car dreams. This example was located; a stickler for details, DK Engineering were tasked with further enhancing this example to the tune of £11,600.

Today it presents superbly with just 48,450 miles from new. Accompanied by its original book pack and comprehensive service records, it is available to view at our showrooms just outside London immediately.